Harley-Davidson Selects Penske Logistics in Brazil

Sep 13, 2012
Source: Penske Logistics

Reading, PA—Sept. 12, 2012—Iconic motorcycle manufacturer Harley-Davidson has selected Penske Logistics to manage its logistics processes in Brazil. The news was announced at the recent Institute of Logistics and Supply Chain Forum in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil.

A team of Penske Logistics associates ensure the efficient shipment of about 13,500 SKUs for 11 Harley-Davidson distributors and resellers across the country from a 2,350-square-meter warehouse. The monthly average movement inbound and outbound is around 40,500 pieces.

Penske Logistics developed a customized methodology of work and new roles inside the distribution center to meet the client´s deadlines, demands and distribution flows. This work includes receiving, separating and distributing pieces, merchandising material, accessories, and clothing.

“We are very pleased to be providing services for Harley-Davidson in the country, as it demonstrates our expertise in the automotive segment and the level of specialization that we provide to every client. We are committed to this relationship and happy with the results we have already achieved,” said Paulo Sarti, Managing Director of Penske Logistics, South America.

Harley-Davidson expects motorcycle sales outside the U.S. to exceed in 40 percent in its 2014 production. To reach this target, markets such as Brazil are considered strategic for the company.

“We really care about our post-sale activities. To ensure the efficiency in this process, we can now count on a logistics partner, who is able to manage the entire distribution effectively as Penske Logistics,” said Longino Morawski, commercial director manager for Harley-Davidson Brazil.

Since the start of the collaboration in January, Penske Logistics has re-engineered the logistics processes to accelerate the separation of product lines. From 1,988 lines in January, it had a peak to 6,841 in April, ensuring greater flexibility in shipping requests.

The layout of the warehouse operation was also specially designed to allow separation into categories of items and is enabled with RFID, electric forklifts and pallet trucks for greater efficiency in handling inbound and outbound shipments.